Romelu Lukaku plays peacemaker as Belgium team-mates clash ahead of stunning World Cup return against Senegal

Lukaku separates Tielemans and Trossard before things escalate further. (X photo) There was more to Belgium’s remarkable 2026 FIFA World Cup comeback against Senegal than late goals and dramatic VAR decisions. Striker Romelu Lukaku was forced to step in and separate two of his own team-mates during a heated confrontation on the pitch before the Red Devils pulled off one of the greatest turnarounds in World Cup knockout history.At 0-2 until the 86th minute, their Round of 32 meeting in Seattle, Belgium looked destined for elimination. Frustration set in between the players as captain Youri Tielemans and Leandro Trossard engaged in a lively exchange before Lukaku calmed down.Ironically, the three players at the center of the incident combined to script Belgium’s memorable escape.

Lukaku the peacemaker before Belgium’s dramatic revival

Senegal dominated much of the match and looked comfortable after first-half and early second-half goals put them firmly in control. Emotions ran high as Belgium’s hopes faded, prompting Lukaku to separate Tielemans and Trossard before the situation escalated further.Moments later, the veteran striker sparked a turnaround when he pulled one back in the 86th minute.Just three minutes later, Trossard delivered a teasing cross into the penalty area, where Tielemans headed in to equalize and force extra time, completing an extraordinary turnaround in regulation.

VAR drama and record winner

Belgium completed the comeback in dramatic fashion deep into extra time. With a penalty shootout looming, Lamine Camara brought down Tielemans inside the area. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot despite furious protests from Senegal’s players, who delayed the restart by surrounding the penalty area.After almost seven minutes of drama, Tielemans confidently fired a penalty into the top corner in the 125th minute – the latest goal in FIFA World Cup history – to seal a stunning 3-2 victory.The win also made Belgium only the second team in the last 11 FIFA World Cups to come back from a two-goal deficit in a knockout match, matching their famous comeback against Japan in 2018. The Red Devils will now face the United States in the round of 16 as confidence builds after one of the tournament’s most dramatic victories.